Combine Results

Grade

4.78 SEC

30 REPS

31.0 INCH

112.0 INCH

7.22 SEC

4.30 SEC

Draft Analysis:

6'3" Height

31" Arm Length

249LBS. Weight

9 3/8" Hands

Overview

Michigan native who grew up in a football family -- father, grandfather and two uncles played at MSU, and another grandfather and uncle played at Notre Dame. Younger brother, Riley, is a fullback for the Spartans. Max played linebacker, fullback and tight end as a Michigan prep, winning two state championships. Appeared in all 13 games in 2010 and recorded 23 tackles (13 on special teams), 1.5 for loss and one-half sack. Was arrested in March 2011 in Colorado and charged with eluding police and underage possession of alcohol; ultimately received nine months probation. Stepped into the lineup in 2011, starting all 14 games, and produced 83 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss and 11 sacks with three pass breakups. Was the leading tackler in 2012, amassing 111 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks with four pass breakups, an interception and a forced fumble in 13 starts. Started all 13 games played in 2013 and was credited with 76 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks with two pass breakups and a forced fumble. Was suspended for the Rose Bowl against Stanford (undisclosed). Two-time captain.

Analysis

Strengths

Terrific football intelligence. Keys and diagnoses quickly, understands run fits and spills willingly. Physical -- good take-on/tackle strengh between the tackles. Pursues hard. Good tackler when he's able to square up ball carriers. Two-year captain with outstanding football character. Leads vocally and by example. Football is in his blood and approaches the game accordingly. His 30 bench-press reps were tied for most among linebackers at the combine.

Weaknesses

Average athlete. Not explosive. Tight hips (exposed in space). Limited foot speed, lateral agility and range. Can be late to the perimeter. Struggles in man coverage and is stiff dropping/turning in coverage. Non-explosive athlete: His 31-inch vertical and 9-foot, 3-inch broad jump were among the worst posted by linebackers at the combine.

Draft Projection

Rounds 4-5

Bottom Line

Big, tough, experienced, durable, competitive Mike linebacker who was a heart-and-soul type for the stingiest defense in college football. Like a coach on the field, Bullough is a throwback talent whose instincts and technique will have to compensate for athletic limitations for him to win a starting role.
-Nolan Nawrocki